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Definitions

designate

[dez-ig-neyt, dez-ig-nit, -neyt] / ˈdɛz ɪgˌneɪt, ˈdɛz ɪg nɪt, -ˌneɪt /
VERB
name, entitle
Synonyms
STRONGEST
label nominate
STRONG
baptize call christen denominate dub nickname style term title
WEAK
cognominate
VERB
specify as selection
Synonyms
STRONGEST
allocate allot appoint appropriate assign authorize choose define describe earmark elect mark name nominate set aside stipulate
STRONG
apportion characterize charge commission connote constitute delegate denote depute deputize dictate evidence favor finger indicate individualize make opt peg pick pinpoint prefer show single slot tag tap
WEAK
button down mete pin down put down for reseve set apart tab
Antonyms
STRONGEST
confuse disallow ignore keep refuse reject
STRONG
conceal deny dislike hide lose refute veto

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

At that length, the Dodgers won’t need to designate long relievers to piggyback Ohtani’s starts.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

The administration has worked to designate the Salvadoran deportees as members of criminal gangs, including MS-13.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said last week he would designate Anthropic a supply-chain risk, but both sides had continued talking in hopes of finding a deal, people familiar with the matter said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

The company is also dealing with the fallout of its dispute with the U.S. government, which decided to blacklist Anthropic on Friday and to designate the company a supply-chain risk from a national-security perspective.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026

Migrants will often designate one person to look out for trouble while the others rest.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario

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